Siirtomaksujen

Siirtomaksu, translated into English as transfer fee, is a payment made by a club to another club in order to sign a player who is still under contract. The term is widely used in football (soccer), but similar arrangements exist in other professional sports such as rugby, ice hockey and handball. Siirtomaksujen, the plural form, refers to all such payments made in a given transfer window or across a season.

In football, a siirtomaksu is typically agreed upon before a player moves, and it is paid over a short period of time, often in installments. The amount reflects the player’s perceived market value, age, potential, and the length of remaining contract. Leagues administer rules that limit the maximum amount a club may pay, and governing bodies such as FIFA set guidelines to prevent excessive spending and preserve competitive balance.

Historically, the concept dates back to the 1950s when European clubs began to formalise player movements. Over time, the market has grown exponentially, with record fees surpassing €200 million in recent years. However, the rise of youth academies and co-ownership deals (now largely prohibited) has altered the dynamics of siirtomaksujen. In some associations, transfer fees are partially offset by solidarity payments to clubs that trained the player, encouraging talent development.

The administration of siirtomaksu transactions is also subject to anti‑corruption measures. Regulatory bodies require full disclosure, and sanctions can be imposed for breaches of the transfer regulations. The debate over the fairness of the transfer system continues, with proponents arguing that fees secure players’ rights and ensure clubs are compensated for investment, while critics claim that inflated fees exacerbate inequality between clubs.